Governor Branstad signs the bill creating tougher penalties for domestic violence involving choking.
Iowans convicted of choking a spouse or dating partner will face tougher penalties in the future. Governor Branstad has signed a bill into law that sets harsher penalities for those convicted of domestic assault by attempted strangulation.
Amber Markham of the Iowa Coalition Against Domestic Violence says this new law “will save lives.”
“Strangulation was a tool that abusers used, that they knew they could get away with,” Markham says, “and now, with the passage of this bill, they will no longer be able to get away with this crime.”
A huge crowd of victim advocates, law enforcement officials and legislators gathered in Governor Brasntad’s office this morning to celebrate passage of the measure.
“This is an important step forward and we know domestic abuse is a very important issue to be addressed and this strengthens our law and we appreciate everyone’s assistance and cooperation on this,” Branstad said. “So thank you all.”
Iowa joins 26 other states which have laws where abusers can be charged with a felony for trying to choke someone.